Former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has been disqualified from running in next month’s Presidential elections. His name was left out of the final list of approved candidates, that was announced on 20 April, 2017. The decision was taken by the Guardian Council, a group of influential jurists and clerics that was charged with the responsibility of screening the candidates for the upcoming elections, which were scheduled to be held on 19 May, 2017.

China to host BRICS Film Festival in June

The 2017 BRICS Film Festival will be held in Chengdu, South West China’s Sichuan Province from June 23 to 27. There will be 30 films from BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Screened during the festival, including an anthology by five directors from the aforementioned countries. The feature film consisting of five 18 minute shorts on the same theme is a joint work by walter Salles from Brazil, Aleksey Fedorchenko from Russia, Madhur Bhandarkar from India, Jahmil X.T. Qubeka from South Africa and Jia Zhangke from China.

Philippine President Duterte wins Time 100 Reader Poll

Rodrigo Duterte, the President of Philippines has won this year’s Time Magazine’s Readers Readers Poll of the 100 most influential people in the world. Duterte received 5% to total, Yes Votes. He maintained the lead, right from the beginning of the poll. Time 100 Readers Poll closed on April 16, 2017. Time 100 Readers Poll is an online server conducted by Time Magazine, under which the readers are asked to vote for probable contenders of the list.

North Korea starts celebrating birthday of countries Founder

North Korean leader Kim Jong un started a massive parade in the capital city on 15 April 2017. The country celebrating the birthday of Jong’s late grandfather North Korea Founder Kim II Sung. North Korea put on a huge military spectacle on the founder’s birthday, parading its series of new and technologically advanced missiles in front of Kim Jong Un and in a defiant show of force in front of the world.

Two billion people drinking contaminated water WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently published a report, Global Analysis and Assessment of Sanitation and Drinking Water (GLASS) 2017, that states that nearly two billion people currently use contaminated water. This contaminated water is also a major factor in several neglected tropical diseases, including intestinal worms, schistosomiasis and trachoma. As per the report, countries have increased their budgets for water, sanitation and hygiene.

US drops ‘MOAB’ on ISIS caves in Afghanistan

The United States on 13 April 2017 dropped its largest non-nuclear bomb ever deployed in combat on an Islamic state tunnel complex in eastern Afghanistan. The bomb was dropped by an MC-130 air craft, operated by the Air Force special operations command. A GBU 43/B Massive ordnance Air Blast Bomb (MOAB), nick named Mother of all Bombs was dropped on a tunnel complex of ISIS – Khorasan, a regional affiliate of the terror group in Achin district of Afghanistan’s Nanagarh province.

Achim Steiner as New Administrator of

United Nations Chief Antonio Guterres appointed Achim Steiner as new administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on 12 April, 2017. Steiner, A German with extensive experience at world organization. He will succeeded Helen clark, a former New Zealand Prime Minister. Clark has steered the United Nations Development programme (UNDP) since 2009 Steiner has served at the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

First rail freight service to China departs UK

The Government of China recently launched a rail freight service between China and London. The train is loaded with whisky soft drinks, vitamins and baby products. The train with 30 containers filled with UK produced goods, set off on the 7500 – mile journey from Stanford –le-Hope in Essex. The train will reach its destination in 18 days. It is the first direct rail link between China and Great Britain.

Lenin Moreno elected President of Ecuador

Ecuador elected Lenin Moreno as the country’s new President, according to the CNE (National Electoral Council) electoral agency. Renowned Moreno and his Vice President Jorge Glas won with 5,057,149 votes or 51.16 percent over former banker Guillermo Lasso and his Vice President Andres Paez, of the right wing CREO – SUMA alliance, who secured 4,827,753 votes and 48.84 percent.

Japan officially recognises Bitcoin as Currency

Japan officially recognized bitcoin and digital currencies as legal money with effect from 1 April 2017. The recognition comes after implementation of a new law amending Banking act in Japan for legalizing these currencies. The step will facilitate integration of digital currency into legal banking system through regulatory scrutiny. Bitcoin is a crypto currency and an electronic payment system.

Myanmar becomes SASEC’s 7th Member

Myanmar become the seventh member of the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) partnership, opening up new markets and supply chain links for trade and business between South Asia and Southeast Asia. SASEC countries Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal and Sri Lanka coordinate the planning of projects and activities to increase economic growth by building transport connectivity, facilitating faster and more efficient trade and promoting cross border power trade.

INDIA & WORLD

India ranks 136 in World Press Freedom Index 2017

In the list of 180 counties mapped, India stands at 136, down from last year’s 133, colour coded again in red to show the situation as difficult. India has slipped three notches in the World Press Freedom Index 2017, a report released by global media watchdog Reporters without Borders. In this index including 72 countries Russia, India, China are in the situation as difficult. Norway ranked 1st in the Index, Sweden 2nd, Finland 3rd position in the list. While North Korea ranked 180, at the bottom of the Index.

Bill Gates praises PM Modi for Swachh Bharat Mission

Microsoft Co-founder and the World’s richest person, Bill Gates has Praised PM Narendra Modi for the Swachh Bharat Mission. Bill Gated specially mentioned the mission’s aim of building 75 million toilets across India, and at present 30% of India’s villages are now open defecation free. Clean India started with 42% of Indians but today it achieved more than 60% successfully.

Indo-French Naval Exercise “Varuna” Commences

The Indian Navy has began a joint maritime exercise with the French Navy at the Mediterranean Sea to further deepen combat coordination between the two Navies. Guided missile destroyer INS Mumbai, stealth frigate INS Trishul and fleet tanker INS Aditya are taking part in the ‘Varuna’ exercise which will continue till April 30. The ‘Varuna’ series of exercises began in 2000 and have grown into an institutionalized form of interaction between the two navies.

India becomes World’s fifth largest military spender

As per figures revealed by Stockholm International peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India has become World’s fifth largest military spender in the year 2016. India’s military expenditure for 2016 was $ 55.9 billion, which marks 8.5% growth over 2015 figure. United States of America with $ 611 billion. China with $ 215 billion, and Russia with $ 69.2 billion.

India replaces Japan as No. ‘2’ LPG Importer

Import of LPG, which is mostly used as cooking fuel in India, during 2016-17 was 11 million tonnes. This marks a growth of 23% as compared to previous year. During the same period. Japan imported 10.6 million tonnes LPG, marking a 3.2% reduction as compared to previous year. In context of this news, it is to be noted that Japan is deliberately cutting back on usage of LPG as cooking fuel and is moving to cheaper alternatives such as Natural Gas. China has retained its position as world’s top LPG importer.

Time releases list of 100 Most Influential People of 2017

Time Magazine on 20 April 2017 released the annual list of 100 most influential people of 2017. This years list included the names of Presidents, Prime Ministers, CEOs and celebrities for the power of their inventions, the scale of their ambitions, the genius of their solutions to problems that could not be solved before. This year only two Indians to feature on the list Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Paytm founder vijay Shekhar Sharma.

Gandhi Stamps sold at 500,0000 pounds at an auction in UK

A set of four rare stamps, featuring the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi has fetched 5 lakh pounds at an auction which is so far, the highest price ever paid for Indian Stamps. The auction was held in United Kingdom, the purchaser is a private australian stamp collector. As per authoritative issue records, only 13 of these 1948 Gandhi 10 – rupee purple Brown and Lake ‘Service’ stamps are in circulation.

China renames six places in Arunachal Pradesh on its official map

China has announced its official names for six places in Arunachal Pradesh and has strong protests with India over the Dalai Lama’s visit to the frontier state. It was aimed at declare China’s claim over Arunachal Pradesh. The official names of six place using at the Roman alphabet one Wo Gyainling, Mila Ri, Qoidengarbo Ri, Mainquka, Bumo La, and Namka Pub Ri.

Australia Abolishes Work Visa Policy 457 Used Largely By Indian

Australian Govt will replace its popular 457 Visa that brings temporary foreign workers to the country with a new version that will recruit only the “best and the brightest in the nation interest” The move to abolish the Visa, used by over 95,000 temporary workers, a majority of them Indians, aims at tackling the growing unemployment in the country.

Alia Bhatt features on Forbes 30 under 30 Asia list

Actress Alia Bhatt has featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list. She is the only Bollywood Actress who has made it to this year. The actress has got a place in Forbes Under 30 Asia list. Alia got her name in the elite list after doing some of the highest earning films and gave best performances in recent times. Alia Bhatt has been acted in over 20 high earning Bollywood movies.

CISCO launches 5th Global Cyber Range lab in Gurugram

US-based tech giant CISCO has launched its fifth global range lab in Gurugram, Haryana with an aim to train Indian firms and govt. agencies on real-world cyber attacks., The facility was inaugurated by National Cyber Security Coordinator Gulshan Rai. CISCO has four other such labs in Australia. CISCO will also launch a security operations centre (SOC) in Pune, its fourth after the US, Poland and Japan in the next few months. It would be linked to other CISCO SOC’s across the world.

“Colours of Northern & Southern States of India”

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri inaugurated cultural programme “Colours of the Northern Southern States of India” at Kathmandu. The two day event is organised by Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), Embassy of India on the occasion of Baisakhi and Nepali New year 2017. A troupe from India performs Bhangra and Giddha and students of ICC present Bharatnatyam and Hindustani music during the programme.

India, Australia signs on Sports Partnership

India and Australia on 12 April, 2017 started a partnership aimed at increasing cooperation in sports, in the presence of visiting Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and batting great Sachin Tendulkar. Also involved in the launch was Sports Minister Vijay Goel. It will advance India – Australia Cooperation in four areas – athlete and coach training and development, sport science, sport governance and integrity and grassroots participation.

Narendra Modi Becomes Most followed World Leader – Instagram

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has just topped the list, beating US President Donald Trump to bag the first spot. PM Modi has 101 posts and 6.9 million followers currently. He is also the most “Effective World leader”, an assessment made on the number of likes and comments he receives on his posts. US president Donald Trump came in second with 6.4 million followers and pope Francis came third with 3.7 million followers. There are 325 Instagram accounts of heads of state, Government and foreign ministers and whose activity was monitored over the past year.

Pak Military court awarded death sentence to Kulbhushan Jadhav

Over a year after Indian Navy Officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, was arrested, a military court in Pakistan has sentenced him to death for “espionage and subversive activities, triggering sharp reaction from India which called it “premeditated Murder”. The Pakistan Army announced that its Chief, General Qamar Ahmed Bajwa, on 10th April 2017 approved Jadhav’s execution after a Field General Court Martial found him guilty of all charges.

India Ranks 9th among 41 countries in corruption in Business

India has ranked 9th out of 41 countries in bribery and corrupt practices in business as per the EY (Ernst & Young) Europe, Middle East, India and Africa (EMEIA) Fraud Survey 2017. The ranking has improved marginally since 2015 in which India ranked 6th. Improvement in India’s rank has been attributed to emphasis on transparency in governance and better regulatory scrutiny. Countries which rank higher than Indian are : Ukraine, Cyprus, Greece, Slovenia, Croatia, Kenya, South Africa and Hungary.

India’s travel and tourism sector ranks 7th in the world

India’s travel and tourism sector ranks 7th in the terms of its total contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic product (GDP), according to a new report of the World Travel and Tourism council (WTTC), 2016. India’s travel and tourism sector generated Rs. 14.1 trillion (USD 208.9 billion) in 2016. Which is the World’s 7th largest in terms of absolute size the sum is equivalent to 9.6% of India’s GDP. The USA, China and Germany at the first, second and third positions respectively.

IISC ranked best educational institution by HRD Ministry

The Indian Institute of Science (IISC), Bangalore, the first Indian institution to make it to the top 10 in a global ranking, has been ranked at the top in the annual national rankings released by the HRD Ministry. Seven Indian Institutes of Technology (IITS) have also made it to the list of top 10 educational institutions released under the national Institutional RAnking Frame Work (NIRF), the other two being Banaras Hindu University and Jawaharlal Nehru University. IISc figured at the top in Overall and Universities, the domestic rankings were announced by HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar.

NATIONAL

Reliance Industries Ltd. become most valued Indian Company

The Mukesh Ambani-Led Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) Regained it status as India’s most valued firm by market capitalisation. RIL overtook Tata Group’s crown Jewel TCS. TCS had replaced RIL as the most valued firm more than four years ago but a sharp rally in the shares of the Mukesh Ambani led firm in the recent past has helped the company close the gap.

Rajnath Singh inaugurates Civil Services Day function

The Department of Administrative Reforms and public Grievances (DARDG) along with the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and pensions is Organising a two day Civil Services Day Programme from 20 April to 21 April 2017. The function was inaugurated by Rajnath Singh, the Union Home Minister and will be president over by Jitendra Singh, who holds the port folio of the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) among many others.

First Made in India industrial robot Brabo

TAL Manufacturing Solutions in April 2017 unveiled India’s first conceptualized, designed and manufactured articulated industrial robot called BRABO. BRABO stands for “Bravo Robot”. It has been developed indigenously for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) in India. TAL Manufacturing Solutions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Motors.

Union Govt puts an end to lal batti on VIP Vehicles

Union Cabinet on 19 April 2017 decided prohibiting the use of red beacons (lal batti) on all vehicles except for certain exempted categories. The only five categories would be allowed to use it are President, Vice – President, Prime Minister, Chief Justice of India, and the Speaker of Lok Sabha. The decision comes into effect from May 1, 2017. If directed the states to amend the Motor Vehicle Rules to restrict the use of the red beacon and impose an exemplary fine on those who misused it.

Centre launches training programme for Women Panchayat Leaders

The Centre launched a training programme for Women Panchayat leaders to skill and administers them so that they can give special emphasis on efficient usage of funds for achieving their overall development. The National Commission for Women (NCW) with help of Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai has developed training modules for empowering these elected women. They will get training under experts from the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRD and PR) in Hyderabad.

Prakash Javadekar launches Portal and Mobile App of RUSA

The Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) under the aegis of the Ministry of Human Resources Development, on 17 April 2017 launched its own portal and mobile app. The portal and app were officially launched by Union Minister of Human Resources Development Prakash Javadekar in New Delhi. The portal is a one-stop location for states. Higher Education Plans, the decision of the State’s Higher Education Councils and details of the resources.

Suresh Prabhu launches new rail coach with glass roof, GPS

Suresh Prabhu inaugurated the new Vista Dome Coach which has glass roof, LED lights, GPS based infosystem and rotating seats among other features. While flagging of the train with Vistadome Coaches between Visakhapatnam and Araku through video conferencing from Rail Sadan in Bhubaneswar. The video coaches features will enable tourists to enjoy scenic beauty along the Journey. The coach also has a glass domed ceiling, automatic sliding doors and a multi tier luggage rack.

“Gramin Krishi Mausam Seva” launched in India

India Meteorological Department (IMD), Ministry of Earth Sciences in implementing Agrometeorological Advisory Services (AAS) under the scheme Gramin Krishi Mausam Seva (GKMS) in the country. GKMS of IMD is rendered twice a week to farmers in collaboration with State Agricultural Universities (SAUS) Institutions of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), IITs etc. District level weather forecast for next 5 days in respect of Rainfall, maximum temperature, minimum temperature, wind speed, wind direction, relative humidity and clouds, crop specific advisories are provided to farmers.

Ganga patrol team planned to check pollution

The government is planning to recruit IPS officers, personnel of the Army, paramilitary forces and state police who have retired from service for raising an exclusive Ganga Voluntary Force. It is expected to prevent water pollution and desecration of the holy river. The proposed central force will police the entire stretch of the Ganga (2,525 km) in 5 states Uttarakhand, Uttarpradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal. Which are on the mainstem of the river.

Union Govt launches Aadhaar Seeding Application

The Union Ministry of Labour & Employment has launched Aadhaar Seeding Application for efficient service delivery and widening the reach of Employees Provident Fund (EPF) benefits. It was launched at the 2017th special meeting of the central Board of Employees provident Fund (CBEPF/EPFO) in New Delhi under the Chairmanship of Minister of state for Labour of Employment Bandaru Dattatreya.

Government launches operation clean money 20

The Income Tax Department has launched another drive to catch tax evaders who had deposited large sums during the demonetisation drive. The first phase of operation had scrutinized deposits worth with Rs. 10 lakhs. The second phase will examine deposits between Rs.5-10 lakhs. This new operation is named as operation clean money 20.

Union Govt. launches URJA MITRA app

The Union Ministry of power has launched Urja Mitra app for empowering citizens by real time information sharing on power supply. The app is a first of its kind, which provides a central platform, web portal (www.Urjamitra.com) as well as mobile app for state power distribution utilities to disseminate power outage information to rural/urban power consumers through SMS/ Push/email notifications across the country.

India’s first ever micro-drama festival held in Delhi

India’s first ever Micro-drama festival was held in New Delhi. With respect to it, the festival is named ‘Thespis’ after Thespis of Icaria the fir4st actor in Greek drama. The longest film of the festival was not more than 10 minutes and shortest film not less than 42 seconds. The day – long event saw screening of 28 independent plays at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Art in New Delhi.

Venkaiah Naidu launches 352 housing projects in 53 cities.

The Minister of Housing & Urban poverty Alleviation M. Venkaiah Naidu lanched 352 projects in 53 cities i 7 states across the country. The project was started with an investment of over Rs.38,000 cr to build over two lakh houses. These housing projects to be taken up by the members of consideration of Real Estate Developers Associations of India (CREDAI) Across the country is the first major private investments initiative into affordable housing.

The Union Minister for Science of Technology and Earth Sciences, Harshvardhan launched a new web portal called ‘nakshe’ in New Delhi on 10 April 2017. The launch commemorates the 250th anniversary of survey of India. The event saw in attendance Y.S.Chowdary, the Minister of State for science & Technology and Earth sciences. Swarna Subbarao, the surveyor General of India and other top scientists and professional from the Geospatial Industry.

Rajnath Singh launches Web Portal “Bharat Ka Veer” in New Delhi

Home Minister Rajnath Singh along with Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar launched the website Bharat Ke Veer” during an event held at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi on 9 April 2017. The Web portal will enable the donors to contribute for the welfare of the kin of fallen soldiers. Rajnath Singh also presented bravery awards and medals to some of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

PM to launch Digital Exhibition on Champaran Satyagraha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a digital exhibition in the national capital on 10 April 2017, to mark the 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s Champaran Satyagraha. The PM will also address the gathering after the launch at the National Archives. The exhibition titled “Bapu Ka Kavyanjali” will not only focus on the champaran movement, but with this event the govt is planning to re-emphasise the importance of cleanliness, which was close Mahatma Gandhi’s heart and was also a key element of the movement.

The Govt has launched Power Tax India, a comprehensive scheme for powerloom sector development, simul taneously at over 45 locations in the country. Launching the scheme in Bhiwandi, Thane district, Maharashtra. The Union Textile Minister Smt smriti Zubin Irani launched Power Tex India Scheme. Recalling that the Powerloom sector alone employs over 44 lakh people and especially benefit for small power loom weavers.

Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, on 27 April 2017 was selected for the Pierre L’Enfant Planning Excellence and Achievement awards 2017. The city was selected for the award for good and advanced town planning and engaging its residents in the planning process. With this, Bhubaneswar became India’s first city to be awarded the prestigious award instituted by the American Planning Association (APA)

UP Govt to set up anti land mafia task force

The Yogi Adityanath government has set up an anti – land mafia task force in Uttar Pradesh. UP government ensure that the land mafia and the encroachers will not be spread and land or property grabbing can be stopped. The 4 tier task force would be headed by a principal secretary followed by Commissioner, DM and SDM in their respective areas. The UP govt has mentioned that the task force would soon submit a report from tehsil to the district and state level about such encroachments.

Northeast India’s Largest IT Hub Opens in Tripura

North east’s Sixth and largest hub for information technology has been inaugurated in Agartala, Tripura. The hub has been set up at a cost of Rs. 50 crore to boost employment and e-governance besides export of software technology. The hub is expected to create more employment opportunities for the youths and extend the e governance to cover all the people of the region.

Central University for Divyangs to be setup in Uttar Pradesh

Union Government will set up a Central University for Divyangs in Uttar Pradesh. It was stated by HRD Minister prakash Javadekar while addressing the convocation function of Shakuntala Mishra national rehabilitation University, Lucknow. The Minister mentioned the University Grants Commission has been instructed to make arrangement for special training of instructors providing education to divyangs.

“Kilkari” Mobile app Launched Haryana Government

Chief Minister of Haryana, Manohar Lal Khattar launched a mobile app as named “Kilkari” to awareness pregnant women & New born baby. Under this scheme Haryana Govt, Provide important information to maternity. Milkari app will mainly awareness women & Newborn baby health. Time Appropriate Audio messages will be sent via the app in the crucial stages of pregnancy, Childbirth and Child Care.

Hyderabad Police gets Golden Peacock Award

Hyderabad Police’s HYD COP’ app has been awarded the Golden Peacock Innovative Product Service Award for 2017. The award was Presented at the Golden Peacock awards ceremony held in Dubai on 19 April 2017 in the Presence of business leaders during IOD India’s “27th World Congress on Business excellence and innovation United Arab Emirates”. Culture and Knowledge Development Minister Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan Presented the awards at the ceremony.

UP Government renames Gorakhpur and Agra Airports

The Yogi Adityanath Government has renamed the Gorakhpur and Agra Airports. The Gorakhpur Air Force Station has been renamed as Mahayogi Gorakhnath Airport. It was named after the founder of the Nath Monastic movement. The Agra Airport will be renamed after RSS ideologue Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport. The Department of Disabled Welfare will not be known as Divyang Jan Vikas Empowerment.

Tamil Nadu Tops in Rural Job Guarantee Scheme

Tamil Nadu has made use of the current spell of drought to create on all – India record in the implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) During the financial year of 2016-17, Tamil Nadu emerged as the top state in generation of person days under the scheme. Against the revised target of 35 crore person days the state had recorded about 39.59 person days. The Original target was 31.5 crore person days.

Kerala Govt to give Pension to Circus Artistes

The CPT (M) led LDF government in Kerala has decided to provide pension to former circus artistes in the state and allocated Rs. 1.13 crore for the scheme. Kerala was giving a nominal pension of Rs. 1200 to all circus artists who had a ration card and had been working in the state for at least 30 years. Hundreds of artistes from the State Working in different Parts of the country do not come under this scheme.

Madhya Pradesh to ban polythene Carry Bags From May 1

Madhya Pradesh government decided to ban plastic polythene bags across the state from May 1. The consumption of polythene bags results in a large number of cow deaths. The state cabinet, chaired by the Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has accorded nod to the proposal of imposing the ban on plastic/polythene bags across the state from 1st May. Besides, the plastic polythene bags are also harmful for the environment.

Telangana passes bill to hike reservations for Muslim and STs

The Telangana passes bill to hike reservation for Muslims and STs. Under this bill the reservation for socially backward people and Muslim people has been increased. For Muslim 4% to 12% increased and for Scheduled Tribes 6% to 10%. In includes total Quotas in government jobs and educational institutions, The total Quota in the state now increase to 62%. The bill will be included in the 9th Schedule of the constitution.

Dr. Hanchinal receives M.S. Swaminathan

The 6th addition of M.S. Swaminathan Award for agriculture has been given to Rayappa Ramappa Hanchinal Chairperson of protection of plant varieties and Farmers Rights Authority. This award has been given to Dr. Hanchinal for his contributions and continuous efforts in areas of seed production technology, crop improvement for hot and very hot dry environments and intellectual protection rights in plant varieties. This Award was presented by C.Parthasarathy Secretary, Agriculture and cooperation Govt of Telangana.

Punjab CM bans names of Ministers, MLA’s on inaugural stones

Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh prohibited the inclusion of names of any government functionaries, including ministers and MLA’s on foundation stones and inaugural plaques. It aimed at building a stronger connect between the government and the people by removing the VIP culture barriers. The Chief Minister’s order comes after state cabinet minister Sadhu Singh Dharamsot allegedly threatened to suspend a school principal on finding his name was third on the inaugural stone.

Andhra Pradesh to introduce “Ammaku Vandanam” in Schools

A Unique Programme to pay tribute to mothers will be introduced in the government – run schools in Andhra Pradesh from this year. Under this programme Mother Worship the school Children will take the blessings of their mothers and may also do Paada Pooja. The government also decided to implement the programme in 5,000 high Schools across the state from the academic year 2017-18. The mothers would be invited to the schools on a specific day every year for the special function.

UP Govt, centre sign MoU for “Power for All” Scheme

Uttar Pradesh Government and the centre have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the ‘Power for All’ Scheme in the state. The aim of this scheme is to ensure 24 hour quality power supply in the state by October 2018 and electric connection to every house and agricultural field by 2019. The agreement was inked in presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister of state for Power Piyush Goyal and UP Power Minister Shrikant Sharma.

Haryana Govt launched “Operation Durga” to ensure women safety

Haryana Govt has been launched “Operation Durga” to ensure women safety in the state. Under this operation, teams formed by the Chief Minister’s Flying Squad visited public places such as schools, colleges, bus stands and railway stations and caught persons including in crime activities against women like eve-teasing, stalking, harassment and other such activities.

Himachal Pradesh bags Krishi Karman Award 2015-2016

Himachal Pradesh Government has bagged National Award in Agriculture Sector for 2015-16. Hamirpur District of Himachal Pradesh has been selected for the Prime Minister’s Award for excellence in public Administration for the excellence in implementing Soil Health Card Scheme. Hamirpur bagged first prize in implementation of Soil Health Card Scheme and the Hill and North Eastern States. This award was presented by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jharkhand police initiates Taare Zameen par programme

Jharkhand police has initiated Tare Zameen par programme to enlighten children in Naxal-affected areas in the Palaman district of Jharkhand. This programme is aimed to restore confidence in the State police force and to encourage children to lead happy lives. As a part of the programme, the state lives. As a part of the programme the state police appealed the locals to donate bags, shoes, books clothes improve the basic amenities of the children in the Nanal – affected areas.

Telangana Minister to address meet on water resources in US

Telangana Minister KT Rama Rao has been invited to address a conference on water resources and environment in the US next month. The Minister will deliver the inaugural address explaining the state Government Schemes such as mission Bhagiratha (to provide safe drinking water), according to an official release. He has been also invited by the Stanford University to speak in its annual meeting on May 18 and 19.

Indian Institute of petroleum and Energy (IIPE) at Visakhapatnam

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for setting up of Indian Institute of petroleum of Energy (IIPE) at Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh as an institute of National importance: through an act of parliament. The institute will have the governance structure as well as legal mandate o grant degrees in a manner similar to the enjoyed by IITS. A separate Act will also impart the required status to the Institute to become a “Centre of Excellence” in petroleum and energy studies.

Pink Patrol vehicles to secure women in Bengaluru

The Bengaluru police have taken an initiative to increase the safety of children and women by introducing 51 pinck patrol vehicles. In addition to this, security app called ‘Suraksha’ is also launched by the Karnataka government through which women and children can send complaints to these vehicles and get quick assistance. At present the app is available on ios as well as Android Smartphones.

Unemployment rate in Uttarpradesh higher than National average

The unemployment rate in Uttarpradesh is higher than the National Average. The centre will soon join hands with the new state government to deal with the problem, according to the Labour Minister Bandaru Dattatreya. The National average of unemployment stood at 5.8%. While the unemployment rate in rural areas it was 4.4%. In Uttar Pradesh, the rate, of unemployment in rural areas was 5.8% and in Urban areas 6.5% which is quite high.

UP Govt to build music village in Bismillah Khan’s honour

The Uttar Pradesh Govt. led by Yogi Adityanath has given its approval to building a music village named “Bismillah Khan Sangeet Gram” to honour of legendary Shehnai player Bismillah Khan. This project is planned to develop at Varanasi, it will be evolved by Padma Shri Soma Ghosh, the adopted daughter of the legendary shehnai player. It will have a museum centre, a training cum research centre and many other varieties associated with musical “gharanas”.

North India to get DNA bank for wildlife

The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh is going to set up a DNA bank for wildlife, first of its kind in North India. Researchers at the institute are in the process of collecting the DNA of all wild animals. They have up until now collected samples of around 140 species. The bank would be only next to Hyderabad’s Laboratory for the conservation of Endangered species (LACONES), which is currently the only such facility in India.

MP CM launched Deendayal Rasoi Yojana

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has launched subsidized meal scheme at Rs. 5 in Gwalior. This scheme helps people to get economical nutritious and good quality food under the Deendayal Rasoi Yojana at cheaper rates. It is launched in 49 districts across the state. Under the scheme the poor people will get four chapatis, one vegetable curry and dal verty day between 11 am to 3 pm. Breakfast will be served at Rs. 5 and lunch will be served at Rs. 8.

Haryana govt to provide Rs.21,000 to families for third girl Child

Haryana government would provide one time grant of Rs.21,000 to all those families whose third girl child was born after August 24, 2015. Under the “Aapki Beti, Hamari Beti” scheme. Under the scheme, the eligible families would receive the amount irrespective of their caste, creed, religion, income and number of sons. The scheme is aimed to combat the problem of declining child sex ratio and promote girls education in the state.

Venkaiah Naidu to Inaugurate National Children’s Film Festival

Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Venkaiah Naidu will host a three-day National Children’s Film Festival (NCFF) in Visakhapatnam on 7 April, 2017. It is the largest film festival for children in the country giving the audience quality and wholesome entertainment. The aim of the film festival is to expose children to quality cinema and to introduce novel elements beyond films.

Jhargram as now district no 22 in West Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on March 4, 2017 declared Jhargram as the 22nd district of Bengal. A long-standing demand of the people has been fulfilled. The days of violence and blood shed are gone. Peace reigns in Jhargram now. April 4 will be celebrated as Jhargram Divas from now on. Jhargram has been formed by bifurcating Wist Midnapore, which has a population of more than 11.37 lakh. The district has one mahakuma, eight blocks, one municipality and nine police stations.

First biogas Bus in Kolkata with Flat Rs1 fare

A city based company has claimed to have launched the first biogas fuelled bus in Kolkata keeping a flat fare of just Rs-1. All buses will have a flat fare of Rs.1 irrespective of the distance, even in excess of 40 km. Presently the lowest fare in Kolkata hus is Rs.6. The first bus will run a distance of 17 km Ultadanga and Garia in the southern fringes of the city phoenix india will run the biogas service from its Corporate Social Responsibility fund.

Madhya Pradesh Govt launches ‘MP e-nagarpalika’ app

Madhya Pradesh Government has launched an app named ‘MP e-nagarpalika’ to provide various municipal services on live. The mobile app was launched by state Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.The app would offer 378 services like online payment of property tax, seeking building permission, birth,marriage,death, certificates etc. It will also register complaints related to garbage, water, street lights etc. Online payment gateway would be available on this app. This mobile app would encourage the cashless transaction.

Kanha Tiger Reserve becomes first in India get official mascot

Kanha Tiger Reserve in the Madhya Pradesh, March 2017 became the first tiger reserve in India to officially introduce a mascot, named Bhoorasingh the Barasingha. Barasingha (Swamp deer) is the state animal of Madhya Pradesh. The Kanha tiger reserve is the only place in the world where the species exists. The mascot will also species from possible extinction.

Bihar to pais power bill subsidy to Consumers

The Chief Minister of Bihar Nitish Kumar announced on 31 March 2017 that the state government would be providing a subsidy on power bill to the consumers instead of power companies from the 2017-18 fiscal year. The announcement was made in the state assembly in the Presence of Energy Minister Prasad Yadav. The move comes six days after Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) introduced an unprecedented hike of 55 percent in power tariff that sparked protests all across the state.

Chandrababu Naidu got another International Award

A.P. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu was honoured with many awards and he earned good for developing the A.P. State, now he got another International Award. US – India Business Council (USIBC) has honored Chandra babu Naidu with the “USIBC Transformative Chief Minister” award to recognize his efforts to transform A.P. He has been requested ta attend the felicitation Ceremony to be held on 8th May in California.

CONFERENCES

India, Sri Lanka Sign MoU on Economic Cooperation

India and Sri Lanka Countries on 26 April, 2017 signed an MoU on economic cooperation. In the presence of PM Modi and his Sri Lankan counterpart Ranil Wickremesinghe. Modi earlier had comprehensive talks with the Lankan PM on ways to strengthen bilateral relations. The MoU proposes Indian investment in a port, oil tank farm, highways and railway projects in Sri Lanka.

India to host 18th World Road Meeting

The international Road Federation (IRF) on 26 April 2017 announced that India will host the 18th World Road Meeting (WRM 2017) which will be held on 13 November 2017. The theme of the World Road Meeting 2017 is “Safe Roads and Smart Mobility “ The Engines of Economic Growth”. The conference is expected to attend by the 4000 delegates across the World and will include plenary sessions with eminent and well-known speakers discussing important issues facing mobility sector.

India, Armenia sign 3 agreements

India and Armenia on 25 April, 2017 signed three agreements after vice president Hamid Ansari held a bilateral meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan in Armenia. The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on peaceful uses of outer space, another MoU cooperation in youth matters and a programme of cultural cooperation for the years 2017-2020.

1st India, Indonesia Energy Forum held in Jakarta

1st India Indonesia Energy Forum was held in Jakarta Indonesia on April 20, 2017 Mr. Piyush Goyal Union Minister of State (IC) for power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mr. Ignasius Jonan, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources of Indonesia took part in this forum. The report of 2nd joint working Group on Oil and Gas, 4th Joint Working Group on coal and 1st Joint Working Group on New and Renewable Energy, which preceded the Energy forum, were Presented to two ministers during the Energy Forum.

Steel Minister inaugurates “India Steel 2017” in Mumbai

Union Steel Minister Chaudhary Birender Singh was Inaugurated “India Steel 2017” in Mumbai from 19th to 21st April, 2017. It was the third edition of International Conference and Exhibition Center. This exhibition cum conference has been Organised by Federation of Indian chambers of commerce and Industry (FICCI) along with Union Ministry of Steel. More than 200 exhibitors from the steel sector participated in this event.

President of India inaugurates first NIM CARE World Health Day Summit 2017

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the first NIM CARE World Health Day Summit 2017. The slogan of the first NIM CARE World health day summit is, “Unite for a Healthy Mind”. Depression affects people of all ages from all walks of life and in all countries. As per the National Mental Health Survey 2015-2016 conducted by NIMHANS, 5.2% of the Indian adult population suffers from depression in some from or the other.

CFC 2017 Begin in Uttarakhand

19th Commonwealth Forestry conference (CFC) 2017 began on 3rd April 2017 at Forest Research Institute (FRI) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand Governor Dr. K.K. Paul was inaugurated the 19th Commonwealth Forestry Conference at the FRI in Dehradun. The 5-day conference is being organized on the theme “Forests for prosperity and Posterity” provide a platform to encourage and strengthen forestry research and development for the benefit of people and Industry that depend on forests and related materials.

India’s youngest ever chancellor Dileep K. Nair, has received Dr. B.R. Ambedkar International Foundation Kerala State Award for the year 2016-17 for his excellent performance in the field of education. The 358 year old academician, who is currently the chancellor of the NEFTU in Arunachal Pradesh, was conferred with the award by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien.

Vani Jayaram gets Ghantasala National Award

The Versatile playback singer in South Indian Film Industry, Vani Jayaram was presented with the Ghantasala National Award. The award is instituted by the Ghantasala National Art Academy in Andhra Pradesh. The 71-year-old singer received the award from A. Ramalingeswara Rao. A high court Judge in Andhra Pradesh and R. Ananda Bhaskar, Rajya sabha Member from the congress party.

Prafulla Samantra selected for Goldman Environmental Prize 2017

Top environmental activist Prafulla Samantra of Odisha has been selected for Goldman Environmental Prize or Green Nobel from Asia region for Championing the cause of State’s Dongria Kondh tribals and safeguarding their land and culture, Samantra, the sixth Indian to win the prize, had led a historic legal battle that protected the Niyamgiri Hills in Odisha. And safeguard the living area of Dongria kondh from massive destruction due to mining.

K. Viswanath wins Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2016

Veteran filmmaker and actor Kasinadhuni Viswanath has been conferred Dadasaheb Phalke award for 2016 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The award consists of Swarn Kamal (Golden Lotus). A cash prize of Rs.10 lakhs and a shawl. He has also won 5 National Awards, 20 Nandi Awards, 10 Filmfare Awards including Lifetime Achievement Award. Dadasaheb Phalke Award is conferred by the Union Govt for outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian Cinema.

Kailash Satyarthi honoured with PC Chandra Puraskar 2017

Nobel Laureate and social activist Kailash Satyarthi was given on 23 April, 2017 PC Chandra Puraskar (Award) for his global crusade against child slavery and exploitative child labour. The 63- year – old Satyarthi was handed over a citation, a trophy and a cash cheque 10 lakh rupees. Satyarthi, who shared the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 with Malala yousafzai of Pakistan.

Dr. Bhakti Yadav from Indore Presented with Padma Shri

The 91 year old gynaecologist, Dr. Bhati Yadav was Presented with the Padma Shri award at her residence on 20 April 2017. The award was presented to her by district collector P. Narahari in the presence of the state’s Finance Minister Jayant Malaiya and Mayor Malini Gaud, as she was unable to attend the function organised in in New Delhi on 13 April where the president of India Pranab Mukherjee had given away the prestigious civilian Award to the recipients. Dr. Yadav has been offering free treatment for the last 68 years.

Saiyami Kher receives Dadasaheb Phalke Excellence Award

Actress Saiyami Kher, who made her Bollywood debut in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s film Mirzya, received the best debut award at the Dadasaheb Phalke Excellence. Awards 2017. Saiyami Kher is the granddaughter of Actress Usha Kiran, and niece of Tanvi and Shabana Azmi, despite hailing from one of the privileged families of the Bollywood. The actress starred in Mirzya opposite veteran actor Anil Kapoor’s on Harshvardhan kapoor.

Kapil Dev, Aamir Khan to get Dinanath Mangeshkar Award

Indian Cricket icon Kapil Dev and Bollywood Actor Aamirkhan will receive the 75th Master Dinanath Mangeshkar Awards. Kapil Dev will be honoured with the Vishesh Puraskar for his outstanding contribution to Indian Cricket, while Aamirkhan for his Best Film Dangal. The event will be organised by Master Dinanath Smruti Pratishthan and Hridayesh Arts. The Awards is given to those personalities who have given extraordinary contribution in the field of social service, literature, Drama and Music etc.

Italian Mayor Giusi Nicolini wins UNESCO Peace Prize

The UNESCO has awarded its Peace Prize to Giusi Nicolini, the Mayor of the Italian island of Lampedusa, for her commitment to saving the lives of Migrants and refugees. Nicolini was bestowed with the honour on 19 April 2017 for her effort that saved thousands who fled across the Mediterranean often on unseaworthy boats to find a better and peaceful life. Lampedusa is the first European landfall for people fleeing war and economic hardship in Africa and the Middle East.

Saira Banu, Jackie Shroff gets Rajkapoor Awards

Veteran actress Saira Banu and actor Jackie Shroff were named for the Prestigious Rajkapoor Awards of the Maharashtra Government. The names of duo were announced on 19 April 2017 by the State Cultural Affairs Minister Vinod Tawde in Mumbai. Saira Banu (72) will be awarded with the prestigious Raj Kapoor Lifetime achievement award, while Jackie Shroff (60) was selected for the Rajkapoor Special contribution award. They will be awarded for their cinematic journey and contributions to the Indian cinema respectively.

Aniruddhan Vasudevan Conferred with Sahitya Academy Award 2016

Anirudhan Vasudevan has been chosen for Sahitya Academy Award. He is chosen for his novel “One Part Woman”, a translation of perumal Murugan’s controversial Tamil Novel “Maadhorubaagan” Kerala Sahitya Academy Award is given each year by Kerala Sahitya Academy. It was given to Malayalam writers for their outstanding books of literary merit. The award was handover Anirudhan on 23rd June in a special occasion.

Trupti Jain wins Cartier Women’s Initiative Award

An Indian environmental engineer Trupti Jain won this year’s prestigious “Cartier Women’s Initiative Award” in Singapore for providing women working on farms with water management solutions and protecting small farmers against droughts and flash floods. Trupti Jain, 45 was one among six winners chosen from over 120 countries and were selected by an independent international jury.

Dipa Karmakar, Sakshi Malik, Sanjeev Kapoor honoured with Padmashri

President Pranab Mukherjee recently presented the Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and Padmashri awards at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also present for the occasion. In this occasion president conferred Dipa Karmakar, Sakshi Malik and Sanjeev Kapoor with Padmashri Awards. Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli was among the sports persons who were picked up the prestigious Padma Shri.

President of India presents National Geo Science Awards 2016

On April 12, 2017, President of India Pranab Mukherjee conferred National Geoscience Awards 2016 on 27 bright Geo-Scientists of India. The awards were conferred at a ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan. The National Geoscience Awards 2016 Comprises one young scientist award and 16 individual /teams awards in 11 fields of geosciences. Dr. Abhishek Saha, NIO, Goa got young scientist award – 2016.

National Hindi Sevi Samman Awards announced

Professors from Japan, USA to be honoured for promoting Hindi. 26 writers including two Japanese and American professors Hindi Sevi Samman by President Pranab Mukherjee for their efforts to promote the language. Fujii Takeshi (Japan) and Gabriela Nik ILieva (USA) will be presented George Grierson award in the foreign Hindi writers category.

Tim Berners – Lee Wins 2016 ACM AM Turing Award

Sir Tim Berners Lee in the first week of in April 2017 was honoured with the 2016 ACM AM Turing Award. Berners – Lee received the 2016 Turing Award for inventing the “World Wide Web”, the first web browser and the fundamental protocols and algorithms allowing the Web to scale. The computer scientist is one of the world’s most influential voices for online privacy and government transparency.

Two Nagaland officials get Shaurya Chakra

Two Nagaland police officers – Sub Divisional Police officers – Sub Divisional Police Officer of Kohima, At Zumvu, and captain Elisen AJami, were decorated with Shaurya Chakra (third – highest peacetime gallantry award) at a grand function held at Rashtrapati. Bhavan in New Delhi. The awards were conferred by President Pranab Mukherjee in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Zumvu is posted as Sub – Divisional Police officer (SDPO), Kohima while army officer captain Jami is from 12th Battalion of the parachute Regiment.

Indian – origin educationist Asha Khemka named “Asian Businesswoman of the Year”

Asha Khemka, an Indian – origin educationist in the United Kingdom (UK) has been named the “Asian Business woman of the year” at the 5th annual Asian Business Awards Midlands, which honours the outstanding achievements of local Asian business. The award ceremony has held at Edgbaston Cricket ground in Birmingham, UK. Asha Khemka is the current principal and CEO of West Nottinghamshire College.

Tim Berners – Lee wins Computing Nobel Prize

Most People who search on Google, Share on Facebook and shop on Amazon have never heard of Sir Tim Berners – Lee. But they might not be doing any of those things had he not invented the World Wide Web. Berners-Lee, 61 is this year’s recipient of the A.M. Turing Award, computing version of the Nobel Prize. The award announced 4th April 2017 the Association for Computing Machinery. It is named in honour of British Mathematician and scientist Alan Turing.

Kohli Named Wisden’s leading cricketer in the world for 2016

Indian cricket Captain Virat Kohli was named Wisden’s Leading Cricketer in the World for 2016. Kohli amassed 1215 Test runs at a stupendous average of 75.93 last year. Ten ODI appearances fetched him 739 runs at 92.37. And also he scored 641 runs in T-20 Internationals runs at 106.83, only six batsman have ever scored more international runs in a calendar year than Kohli but none of them have come close to the Indian captains average.

Harmanpreet Kaur adjudged the Women’s Player of the year

Indian Women’s T-20 captain Harmanpreet Kaur has been given Sydney Thunder’s Women’s player of the year award. She won the award for the second season of the Women’s Big Bash League. Harmanpreet earlier has become the first Indian cricketer to play in Australia’s Big Bash League, when she was picked by the teams last year. During her time with the Thunder, Kawr played in 13 matches and scored 296 runs at a very, very impressive average of 59 and strike rate 116.

8 Sportspersons including Kohli receive Padma Shri Award

Virat Kohli, Sakshi Malik, Dipa Karmakar, Mariyappan thangavelu, Deepa Malik, PR Sreejesh, Vikas Gowd, Shekhar Naik were received padma Shri Awards, Pranab Mukherjee, the President of India, bestowed the award upon them at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The padma Shri is the fourth highest civilian award in India. The above all were done exceptional achievements in their sports.

SPORTS & GAMES

India wins 16 medals at US Open Karate Championship

India finished with three gold, two silver and 11 bronze medals at the US Open Karate Championship held in Las Vegas. Shaifali Agarwal, Abhishek, Sengupta won a gold medal, a silver in two different individual events. India also won a gold medal in the team event. The Indian team was led by Sensei Yashpal Singh Kalsi. The other members of the Indian contingent were Abhishek Sengupta, Rantej Singh, Harcharan Singh chowhan and Shaifali Agarwal.

MCC offers honorary life membership to “Sandhya Agarwal”

Sandhya Agarwal, former captain of the Indian women’s Test cricket Team has been offered honorary life membership of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in recognition of her distinguished service to the game. Sandhya Agarwal is from Indore, Madhya Pradesh. She has played 13 Tests and 21 ODIs from 1984 to 1995. After her retirement, she has been associated with cricket as a selector and coach, besides being a member of the BCCI’s women’s Committee.

Manpreet Kaur bags Gold at Asian Grand Prix Meet in China

Indian shot putter Manpreet Kaur has clinched a gold in the first leg of Asian Grand Prix Athletics Meet in Jinhua, China, Manpreet came up with the best throw of 18.86 meter, which has nearly one meter more than her earlier national record of 17.96 meters that she had set in 2015. With this performance, Manpreet also qualified for the IAAF World Championships to be held in August 2017 in London.

Nadal wins Monte Carlo Masters Singles Title

Rafael Nadal has won the Men’s singles title of Monte Carlo Masters Tennis Tournament. He was defeated Ramos vinolas on 23 April, 2017. With this Nadal claimed a record 10th Monte Carlo Masters Title. Earlier Bopanna and his partner Pablo Cuevas lifted the Monte Carlo Masters Doubles Title after defeating a hard fought three set win over Spain’s Feliciano Lopez and Marc Lopez in Monaco.

Cricket, Sambo were removed from 2018 Asian Games

One of the sports to miss out from the programme list of the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, Palembang is Cricket. Apart from the cricket, skateboarding, sambo and surfing are among the other sports which have been removed from the programme in order to reduce the burden on Indonesian Organisers. This measure was taken as a part of the series of changes aimed at reducing the total number of events from 493 to 431. Also omitted from the list are kurash and belt wrestling events.

Asian Games will feature video games in 2022

Video Gaming will be featured at the 2022 Asian Games, with competitors in electronic sports set to receive medals for the digital powers. The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) says it will introduce esports to the official programs of the Asian Games of Hangzhou, China, Main aim of launching this video gaming is to bring the rapid development and popularity of this new form of sports participation among the youth.

India’s first Visually impaired athlete to complete Boston Marathon

Sagar Baheti has become the first Visually impaired Indian runner to complete the historic Boston Marathon. Bengaluru based 31 years old Baheti Completed a distance of 42.16 km distance in just over four hours. Supported by the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Baheti finished the 121st Boston Marathon as one 30,000 runners. The 2017 Boston Marathon has been recorded as the second hottest Marathon in a decade.

Muttiah Muralitharan to be inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Sri Lanka’s Legendary off spinner Muttiah Muralitharan, the first cricketer from his country to be voted into the ICC Hall of Fame, will be formally inducted during the ICC Champions Trophy in England later this year. One of the most iconic cricketers of the game, Muralitharan has been synonymous with the rise of Sri Lankan cricket since the early nineties. He was key role of their World Cup Winning squad in 1996. He has the art of mastering the ‘Doosra’ Murali will also be joined by former Australia captain Karen Rolton, Arthur Morris and George Lohmann.

Pankaj Advani wins Asian Billiards Championship

Indian Pankaj Advani won his seventh Asian title by defeating Sourav Kothari 6 – 3 in final of the Asian Billiards Championship – 2017. In recognition of his achievements, the government of India has bestowed several awards upon Advani – Arjuna Award in 2004. Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2006, and Padma Shri in 2009. Advani won the 2014 IBSF World 6 – Red Snooker Championship, on his debut in that discipline.

Gayle becomes first cricketer to score 10,000 runs in T 20

Chris Gayle became the first cricketer to score 10,000 runs in T 20 cricket. He accomplished this feat while playing Royal Challengers Bangalore against Gujarat Lions in an Indian Premier League (IPL), 2017 match. Before the start of 2017 IPL, Gayle needed 63 runs to reach the 10,000 mile store. As of new, Gayle is the only cricketer in the 10,000 runs club in T 20s. No other batsman has crossed even 8,000 runs mark in T 20 s. Highest run scorer after Gayle is Brendon McCullum with 7596 runs in T 20 s.

Pullela Gayatri Wins twin crown is Jakarta

Pullela Gopichand a National Badminton Coach daughter has won both single and double crown at the Pembangunan Jaya Raya Junior Grand Prix in Jakarta on 16th April 2017. Gayathri teamed up with Samiya in doubles title and win over Indonesian Players of Kelly Larissa and Shelandry Vyola. Gayatri and Samiya both trained at Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad. She has won under – 15 doubles title.

Sebastian Vettel wins Bahrain F1 Grand Prix

Sebastian Vettel has taken out the Bahrain Grand Prix from Lewis Hamilton. The victory was Vettel’s second of the season after the four time world champion won the opener in Australia. Hamilton who won in China last weekend, crossed the finish line 6.6 seconds behind. Vettel’s win lifted him to 68 points, with Hamilton second on 61 points. Thus Ferrari’s sebastian Vettel wins Bahrain Formula one Grand Prix.

Sai Praneeth won maiden Super Series title in singapore

Sai Praneeth has won the title match of Men’s singles at Singapore Open Badminton beating his compatriot Kidambi Srikanth. In the Singapore Open Badminton tournament Sai praneeth won his maiden Super Series Title. Praneeth prevailed 17-21, 21-17, 21-12 in a 54 minute contest, which was the first all- Indian Super Series final in the history of the game.

Harbhajan Singh as Ambassador for ICC Champions Trophy

Eight cricketers including Harbhajan Singh and Former Pakistan Captain Shahid Afridi have been appointed an ambassadors for the ICC Champions Trophy – 2017, which scheduled be held from June 1, 2017 in UK. The ambassadors will be involved in the ICC champions Trophy Tour and will participate in the cricket for good coaching clinics, a programme aimed at providing school children with an opportunity to meet and play with legends.

NBA Launches International Basketball Schools Network in Mumbai

NBA Basketball schools open to young male and female players; Top players at each basketball school will have opportunity to attend NBA Academics. National Basketball Association (NBA) opened a network of tuition based basketball development programmes around the world open to International male and female players ages 6-18. The first NBA Basket ball school launched in Mumbai 9 April 2017.

Hamilton beats Vettel to win his fifth Chinese Grand Prix

Mercedes’ British Formula one racer Lewis Hamilton defeated Ferraris four – time formula one World Champion Sebastian Vettel to lift his fifth little at the Chinese Grand Prix on 9 April 2017. Red Bull team males Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo finished third and fourth respectively in Shanghai. Sahara Force India’s Sergio perez finished the race in the ninth place.

Shyam Kuma Claims Gold in Thailand International Boxing

Indian Boxer K. shyam Kumar (49 kg) Clinched a gold medal at the Thailand International Tournament in Bangkok without even stepping inside the ring for his summit clash on 8th April. How ever Olympic Champion Hasan Boy Dolmatov of Uzbekistan was unable to play the match due to his injury. It was the second gold prize to Shyam. Shyam, who won a gold Prize at the 2015 edition of the event.

India ranked 3rd in WADA doping charts

India had been ranked 3rd for the third year in a row in a doping violation report published by world 117 athletes from the country being punished after testing positive for banned substances. India followed Russian Federation (176) and Italy (129), at third sport in the doping violation chart released by the WADA, the same position as in the reports of 2013 and 2014. All the dope violations by the Indians came from urine samples.

FIFA Bans Former Guatemalan FA President Brayan Jimenez

FIFA (International Federation of Association Football) Banned Guatemala’s former football Chief Brayan Jimenez for life time over corruption, bribery and other offences. Jimenez was banned for life from all football related activities at national and international level. He was banned for life time for accepting bribes worth several hundred thousand dollars in exchange for media and marketing rights for key matches. Guatemala is a country in central America and its capital is Guatemala city.

Roger Federer beats Rafael Nadal to win Miami Open

Roger Federer picked up his third title of 2017 on 2nd April 2017. He was beating Rafael Nadal in straight sets to claim the Miami open and continue his sensational resurgence. The Swiss great beat his Spanish rival for a third time this season and fourth in succession. He had take 94 minutes to claim his 91st career title and with it. Federer defeated Nadl with straight sets 6-3, 6-4 victory in Florida.

Sindhu lifts India Open Badminton title

Olympic Silver medalist P.V. Sindhu defeated Carolina Marin in straight sets 21-19, 21-16 in 47 minutes at the India open Badminton Championship in New Delhi. Sindhu had lost to Caroline Marin in the Rio Olympics final and had to be content with silver medal. However the victory will be a huge booster for the Indian and soothe the pain of her Olympic defeat. Sindhu had also beaten Carolina in the Dubai World superseries Finals in December 2016.

Joyciline smashes three world records at Prague Half Marathon

Joyciline Jepkosgei smashed the world half marathon record at the sportisimo Prague Half Marathon. She also breaking three other world records on her way her time of 64:52. The Kenyan clocked splits of 30.05, 45:37 and 61:25 to improve the 10km, 15 km and 20 km world records respectively. Defending champion Violah Jepchumba finished second while Fancy chemtai wor third.

ECONOMY

IMF retains India’s growth forecast at 7.2% for FY 18

India is pegged to be the fastest growing economy in the World in 2017-18 and will be a key driver for Global growth, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Retaining its growth forecast of 7.2 percent for India for the fiscal year, the IMF, in its World Economic outlook, also estimated that India would grow at 7.7 percent in 2018-19. It has pegged world output at 3.5 percent in 2017, rising marginally to 3.6 percent in 2018. By 2022 it estimates global growth to rise to 3.8 percent.

President Pranab Mukherjee approves GST

President Pranab Mukherjee gave his assent to the landmark Goods and Services Tax (GST) bill, a major step towards rolling out the new indirect tax effect from April 1 Next Year. This bill was passed Unanimously by the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha in August. After the president assents, the government will notify the GST Council, Union Finance Minister will head the council, which will comprise state Finance Ministers.

Petrol, Diesel prices to change every day From May 1

State run fuel retailers, Indian oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan petroleum, have reportedly decided to revise the prices of petrol and diesel every day from May 1. The daily revision will initially be implemented in Puducherry, Visakhapatnam, Udaipur, Jamshedpur and Chandigarh. Currently the prices are revised on 1st and 16th of every month. And next this will be implemented throughout the country.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

India Successfully test fires Agni – III ballistic missile

India on 27 April 2017, successfully test fired Agni-III ballistic missile from Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha Coast. The surface to surface nuclear capable intermediate range ballistic missile can hit targets in the range of around 3000 km. The two stage solid propelled missile has length of 17 metres, 2 metres diameter and its launch weight is around 50 tonnes. The missile was inducted into the armed forces in June 2011.

NASA discovered Ice ball Planet though Microlensing

NASA scientists have discovered a new planet OGLE – 2016 – BLG- 1195 lb that has the same mass as Earth and Orbits its star from the same distance as Earth Orbit the Sun. The newly discovered planet is nearly 13,000 light years and orbits a small star. Ice ball planet is the lowest mass planet ever found though microlensing. Microlensing is a technique that facilitates the discovery of distant objects by using background stars as flash lights.

NASA launches super pressure Balloon from New Zealand

The National Aeronautics and Space administration (NASA) on 25 April 2017 successfully launched its football stadium sized and heavy lift Super Pressure Balloon (SPB) from Wanaka, New Zealand. The Balloon will float for 100 or more days at 1,10,000 feet (33.5 km) across the globe in the Southern Hemisphere’s mid-latitude band. It will observe a broad swath of the Earth’s atmosphere to detect the UV fluorescence from the deep space cosmic rays coming in the above.

NASA Astronaut Peggy Whitson sets a new space walk record

NASA Astronaut Peggy whitson on 24 April 2017 set a new US Record for most cumulative 650 days spent in space. With this Whitson surpassed Cosmonaut Jeff Williams record of 534 days, 4 hours and 48 minutes aboard the International space Station (ISS). With the recent extension of her stay at the ISS, the Expedition 51 Commander has five months to rack up another record.

Indian Navy successfully tests land attack Brahmos Supersonic Missile

Indian Navy successfully tested a Brahmos land attack supersonic cruise missile from a naval ship on 21st April 2017. The variant of the long range Brahmos was fired in Bay of Bengal, off the eastern coast. Previously the antiship variant has already inducted into the indian Navy. The present land attack variant provides Indian warship the capability to attack the selected in deep inland far from the coast.

Space X Launch the First Recycled Rocket

Space X made history by successfully launching the first re-used rocket. The launch is scheduled to take place from the Kennedy Space Center, at pad 39 A, in cape canaveral, Florida. The Falcon 9 completed an unmanned resupply mission to the ISS this time last year, before returning to Earth and landing on a platform at sea. It was first time Space X founder Elon Musk tried to fly booster that soared before on an orbital mission.

PERSONS IN NEWS

A). APPOINTMENTS

Syrian Lady Made UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador

The office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) appointed Yusra Mardini a Syrian refugee who together with her sister Swam for three hours in the Mediterranean Sea off Turkey’s coast, pulling a capsizing boat of refugees to safety as its new Goodwill Ambassador. Her actions saved the lives of 20 refugees who were fleeing the Syrian capital, Damascus.

Justice Gita Mittal appointed as Acting Chief Justice of Delhi High Court

Justice Gita Mittal, the senior – most judge of Delhi High Court, has been appointed as the acting Chief Justice of Delhi High court with effect from April 14. Her appointment comes at the backdrop of the retirement of current Chief Justice Gorla Rohini. President of India has appointed justice Mittal as the Chief Justice by exercising his powers conferred by article 223 of the constitution of India.

Anuja Ravindra Dhir becomes first non-white judge at London Court

Indian – origin Anuja Ravindra Dhir became the first non – white judge of the old Bailey Court of London. She is also the youngest circuit judge currently to sit at the court. The old Bailey court of London is the Central Criminal court of London. It houses 15 judges including 10 men and five women.

Former SC Judge Shiva Kirti Singh to Head TDSAT

The Union government has cleared retired Supreme Court Judge Shiva Kirti Singh as the next Chairman of The Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT). The appointment is for a period of three Years from the date of assumption of office or until further orders, whichever is earlier. As per rules, the head of the dispute resolution agency for the telecom industry must be a person, who has been a SC Judge, or the Chief Justice of a High Court.

MD Tomar appointed India’s Ambassador to Germany

Mukta Dutta Tomar was appointed as new India’s Ambassador to Germany. Tomar, a 1984 batch IFS officer. She is presently working as the Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). She is expected to take up the assignment shortly. Earlier, Gurjit Singh was holding this post till in March 2017. Tomar succeeded Gurjit Singh.

Malala named Messenger of peace to

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on 7 April 2017 named nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai the messenger of peace for the international body. She became the youngest ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate in Dec, 2014. She was sharing the honour with Indian Children’s rights and education advocate Kailash Satyarthi. Yousafzai is the first Messenger of peace designated by Guterres and will help to promote girls education around the world.

Aleksandar Vucic as New President of Serbia

Serbian Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic has won a Clear Victory in the country’s Presidential election. He Won about 55% well above the threshold to avoid a runoff, with most results counted. His closest challenger, Sasa Jankovic, Polled 16% while satirical candidate Ljubisa Preletacevic came third with 9% of the votes. He became Prime Minister after landslide Victory in early parliamentary elections held in 2014.

RBI Appoints Malvika Sinha as Executive Director

The Reserve Bank of India has appointed Malvika Sinha as Executive Director )ED) who took charge on April 3, 2017. As Executive Director, Sinha will look after Foreign Exchange Department, Department of Government and Bank accounts and internal dept, Management Department, Notably, Sinha holds a Masters Degree from University of Bombay and has done her master’s public Administration.

First Transgender Police Officer Appointed in Tamil Nadu

Prithika Yashini won her first fight against the society when she decided to undergo a sex change operation to become who she believed she was from within. Born pradeep Kumar, Yashini left her parents house before completing a computer studies course and under going surgery. After struggling with the social dogma and gender bias, she recently applied to become a police sub-Inspector in Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu. A court in Chennai, Madras has now ruled in her favour.

Rajiv Kumar Chander as India’s permanent representative to UNO

Rajiv Kumar Chander was appointed India’s ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations Offices in Geneva. Chander belongs to the Indian Foreign Services (IFS) batch of 1983. He is the Consul General of India in Vancouver at present, a post he held since August 2015. He has degrees in History and law. He will succeed Ajit Kumar at the Geneva Office.

Raman Roy as new Chairman of

It Industry body Nasscom on wednesday appointed Quattro CMD Raman Roy its Chairman for fiscal year 2017-18. It has also named Rishad premji, Wipro Chief strategy officer and son of technology czar Azim Premji, as the Vice Chairman. Roy who served as the Vice Chairman in the previous fiscal year. He was take on the newrole from 6 April. National Association of Software and services Companies (Nasscom) is the full form.

Geeta johri as Gujarat’s First Female DGP

Geetha Johri, Gujarat’s newly appointed Deputy General of Police has scored many firsts to her credit. Gujarat’s first female IPS officer, also became the first female DGP after the outgoing DGP – in – charge PP Pandey decided to step down due to litigations against him. Panday, a 1980 batch Gujarat cadre IPS officer, had made headlines after he was accused in alleged fake encounter case of Ishrat Jahan.

M.S. Dhoni as one day CEO to Gulf Oil India

Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who has worn many hats over the years, worn another feather in his cap on 3 April 2017. The “Captain Cool” has been appointed as the CEO of Gulf Oil India for a day. Dhoni was named as the brand ambassador of Gulf Oil back in 2011 and since then has shared a good bond with it. To taken this relationship a step forward, the company decided to appoint him as CEO for a day.

Indira Banerjee appointed as CJ of Madras High court

Justice Indira Banerjee was appointed as the Chief Justice of Madras High Court recently. Now, she is serving as the judge of Delhi High Court. She succeeds Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, who was transferred to the Supreme Court in February 2017. With this Banerjee became the second woman to head the Madras High Court. Justice Kanta Kumari Bhatnagar was the first lady to head the charted court in 1992.

Vipul takes charge as New Consul General of Dubai

Diplomat Vipul a 1998 batch Indian Foreign Service Officer took up the charge as the new consul General of Dubai. Mr. Vipul has succeeded Anurag Bhushan. Before joining the consulate at Dubai, he was working in the office of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. He had earlier served at India’s diplomatic missions in Sri Lanka and Egypt. Dubai is recognised as the commercial capital and tourism centre of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Vanaja Sarna appointed as Chairperson of CBEC

Senior bureaucrat Vanaja Sarna was appointed as Chairperson of Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC). Sarna, a 1980 batch officer of Indian Revenue Service, is at present member in the CBEC. She will take over charge from incumbent Najib Shah who completes his term this month end. The appointments committee of cabinet has approved Sarna’s appointment an order issued by personnel ministry. The CBEC which works under finance ministry comprises of a chairperson and a maximum of 6 members.

B). RESIGNS

Farooq Abdullah wins Srinagar Lok Sabha by poll

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on 15 April 2017 won the Srinagar Lok Sabha by poll after defeating PDP Candidate Nazir Ahmad Khan by around 10,000 votes. Abdullah had faced his first electoral defeat in his over 35-year long political career when he had lost to PDP’s Tariq Hameed Karra in 2014 General elections. Karra had later resigned from Lok Sabha.

C). DEATHS

Bollywood actor Vinod Khanna dies of Cancer

One of India’s most well-known Bollywood actors Vinod Khanna has died with suffering from Cancer. He was 70 years old. He is best remembered for his performance in films like Mere Apne, Mera Gaon Mera Desh,Gaddaar, Jail Yatra, Kuchhe Dhaage, Amar Akbar Anthony, Rajput, Qurbani, Dayavan and others. He was popularly hailed as one of the most handsome lead actors ever in Bollywood, along with Dharmendra, Rajesh Khanna and Shammi Kapoor.

Veteran Journalist Nora Chopra no more

Due to multi-organ failure, veteran journalist Nora Chopra passed away on 20 April 2017. She was 64. Chopra was widely admired and respected for her journalistic skills. She had a long and distinguished career, especially with the Sunday Guardian and Asian Age. In her death the nation has lost one of senior most journalist.

Top Maoist Comrade Narayan Sanyal Passes Away

A top maoist leader Narayan Sanyal has passed away on 18 April 2017 in Kolkata. He played a key role in mergers of Naxalite factions. Sanyal was known for his keen interest in football. He was born in an affluent family in undivided Bengal Bogra district. He was the polit Bureau member of CPI (Maoist). He left his job in a bank in Kolkata to join the Charu Majumdar – Kanu Sanyal led movement.

Former AP Minister Devineni Rajashekhar Passes Away

TDP leader and former Andhra Pradesh Minister Devineni Rajashekhar (Nehru), died of cardiac arrest. He was 63. A powerful youth leader, Devineni Nehru has been part of the TDP since its formation in 1982 by the supreme and leading str NT Rama Rao. He was elected MLA from Kankipadu in 1985, 1989 and 1994 and served as a minister in the NTR Cabinet. After switching over to the N. Chandrababu Naidu camp in 1996, when the TDP split, he later joined the congress. He was lost the elections in 1999 but was later elected in 2004 and defeated in 2009 and 2014.

Former Bihar Minister Narsingh Baitha Passes Away

Former Bihar Minister Narsingh Baitha Passed away at patna after prolonged illness, He was 100. Baitha was elected MLA for three times from Bagha reserved seat since 1962. Later, he represented Shikarpur reserved seat in West champaran in the State Legislative Assembly in 1985. He was minister in Congress government two times headed by Daroga Prasad Rai and Jagannath Mishra.

Girish Chandra SAXENA, Former J & K Governor Dies

Former Jammu & Kashmir governor Girish Chandra Saxena, lovingly called Gary died on 14 April 2017 after a brief illness. He was 90. Saxena’s brother Naresh Chandra, former Cabinet Secretary and ambassador to the US. He was born in Agra in 1928 and is survived by his wife and two daughters.

Former Union Minister Akhilesh Das Gupta passes Away

Congress leader and former Union Minister Akhilesh Das Gupta passes away after suffering with heart attack. He is the son of Freedom Fighter Late Shri Babu Banargidas, former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Akhilesh Das Gupta has been a National level badminton player and had represented the State of Uttar Pradesh 1977 to 1983.

Kishori Amonkar, Hindustani Classical Vocalist passes Away

Renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Kishori Amonkar Passed Away in Mumbai on Monday, 3 April 2017,after a brief illness. She was 84. Born on 10 April 1932, Amonkar was recognised as the of the foremost singers in the Hindustani tradition and as an innovative exponent of the jaipur gharana. Amonkar was awarded the Padma Bhushan (1987) and Padma Vibhushan (2002). In 2010, she became a fellow of the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

D). VISITORS

President of Nepal, Bidhya Devi Bhandari Visit to India

Bidhya Devi Bhandari, the first female President of Nepal, was on an official visit to India from 17th to 21st April, 2017. During Ms Bhandari’s Visit, both sides assessed the implementation of ongoing cross border connectivity projects including development of Terai roads, cross border railway lines, integrated border check posts, and cross – border pipeline for carrying petroleum products which is the first of its kind in South Asia.

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina’s four day visit to India

PM of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina was on an official visit to India from 7th to 10th April 2017. In a bid to strengthen bilateral ties, India and Bangladesh signed 22 agreements for cooperation in various area viz. civil nuclear cooperation, cyber security, media, judicial sector, peaceful uses of outer space, defence, information technology, electronics and transport connectivity. After comprehensive talks between Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh, India announced $ 4.5 billion line of credit for development projects in Bangladesh.

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak Visits India

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak was given the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi. This year marks the 60th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations. Malaysia’s father of Independence, Tunku Abdul Rahman, Visited India in 1962. India and Malaysia signed their strategic partnership in 2010. Now, PM Modi and PM Najib will hold substantive talks, particularly focusing on enhancing business ties.

E). MISCELLANEOUS

India’s Srishti Kaur wins Miss Teen Universe 2017

On 25 April, 2017 Srishti Kaur from India was crowned Miss Teen Universe 2017. The beauty Pageant event took place in Managua. The capital city of nicaragua. Kur beat out 25 contestants from other parts of the world. Kaur also won the prize for the best national costume at the prestigious pageant. The costume featured a peacock, India’s national bird. The other two finalists were Ary Trava from Mexico and Samantha Pierre from Canada.

‘Newton’ wins best film honour at Hong Kong International Film Festival

Bollywood film Newton has won the best film honour at the Hong Kong International Film Festival. The lead actor of the film is Raj Kumar Rao. Amit Masurkar directed “Newton” is a political satire. It had its world premiere at the 67th Berlin Film Festival where it won the International Federation of Art Cinemas Award in its Forum Segment.

Canadian Defence Minister Pays Obeisance at Golden Temple

Canada’s Defence Minister Harjit Singh Sajjan on 20 April 2017 paid Obeisance at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, where he was honoured by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). Mr Sajjan who had arrived in the city on 19 April night, reached Harmandir Sahib early the next day and went to the sanctum to offer prayers. The visiting dignitary spent close to an hour at the premises and then left for his native village, Bambili in Hoshiarpur.

Violet Brown as World’s oldest Human Being

Violet Brown, a Jamaican Woman who spent much of her life cutting sugar cane in fields around her home. Now, she has become the oldest person in the world. Born on 10th March, 1900, Brown is 117 years and 38 days. Previous oldest person Emma Morano, Born on 29th November, 1899, was died at 117 years and 137 days old. However, Brown has not yet been declared the world’s oldest person by Guinness Book of World Records.

World’s First Museum of Polar Lands

A new museum built by the son of renowned French explorer aims to show “the beauty of Polar Landscapes” and illustrate the consequences of climate change. The museum, Espace des Mondes Polaires Paul Emile Victor, provides a visually compelling tutorial on these changes. The centre in the eastern France is the only permanent museum devoted Arctic and Antarctic in the World. Built in the shape of a jutting iceberg and with 60% of its volume buried under ground. Museum was conceived by anthropologist Jean christophe Victor son of Paul – Emile Victor.

PLACES IN NEWS

World’s 5th tallest building “Lotte World Tower” Opens in Seoul

South Korea celebrates the opening of Lotte World Tower the world’s fifth highest skyscraper a, 1819 feet seven star hotel in Seoul. Lotte World Tower is a 123 floors building built on the banks of River Han in Seoul. The landmark building boasts some record setting amenities such as the World’s highest swimming pool, world’s highest glass bottomed observation deck, the world’s fastest elevator taking visitors to the top just one minute.

BOOKS IN NEWS

PM releases book “Matoshree” authored by Sumitra Mahajan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a book authored by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan in New Delhi. On 11 April 2017. The book “Matoshree” covers the life and time of legendary Devi Ahilyabai Holkar who ruled the Holkar Empire spread over the Malwa region from 1767 to 1795. The region of Ahilya Bai of Indore in Central India has became almost legendary as a period during which perfect order and good government prevailed and the people prospered. She has participated in several plays on the life of Ahilyabai.

COMMITTEES

Nita Ambani made member of IOC’s Olympic Channel Commission

Nita Ambani has been made amers of International Olympic Committee’s Olympic Channel Commission, which handles IOC’s digital platform. Besides the Olympic channel, she has also been made a member of IOC’s Olympic Education Commission. In August last year, Nita became IOC’s first Indian woman member after being elected at the 129th IOC session in Rio de Janeiro.

India, Malaysia sign 7 agreements

India and Malaysia recently signed seven agreements including in the are as of civil aviation and human resources development, following delegation level bilateral talks headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Najib Razak in New Delhi. An agreement was signed by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Malaysian Minister of Transport Sri Liow Tiong Lai to boost air services between the two countries.

IMPORTANT DAYS & DATES

World Intellectual Property Day April 26

World Intellectual Property Day is observed on April 26 each year with a variety of events and activities worldwide. It aims to increase people’s awareness and understanding of intellectual property (IP). the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIFO) world together with various government agencies, non govt organizations, community groups and individuals to hold different events and activities to promote World Intellectual Property Day each year.

25 April World Malaria Day 2017

World Malaria Day is all about celebrating the successes there have been in the drive to eradicate malaria from the world as well as raising awareness of the disease and its prevention. This year the World Health Organisation (WHO) has made “ending malaria for good” its theme for World Malaria Day 2017. A Tropical disease which is spread by infected female anopheles mosquitoes.

National Panchayati Raj Divas – April 24

Every year April 24 is being observed as National Panchayati Raj (PR) Diwas Across the India. Amendment Act 1992 that came into force with effect from 24 April, 1993. Every year on this day Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj Organises, National Conference to commemorate the National panchayati Raj Divas. Best performing Gram Panchayats are conferred with Rashtriya Gaurav Gram Sabha Puraskar by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

World Book and Copyright Day 2017, 23rd April

The World Book and Copyright Day was celebrated on 23 April 2017 across the globe. To mark the occasion, special events were organised to promote reading, publishing and copy right across the world including India. The World Book and copyright Day is an opportunity to highlight the power of books to promote UNESCO’s vision of knowledge societies that are inclusive, pluralistic, equitable, open and participatory for all citizens.

English Language Day Observed on 23rd April

UN English Language Day is Observed annually on 23rd April. The event was established by the UNESCO in 2010 to seeking to celebrate multilingualism and Cultural diversity as well as to promote equal use of all six of official working languages throughout the Organisation. April 23 was chosen as the date of English Language, because it is the anniversary of both birth and death of William Shakespeare.

International Earth Day April 22

The World Earth Day is being observed on 22 April, 2017. The day is celebrated every year on 22 April and encourage people to look after the planet by being environmentally friendly, The theme of 2017 is ‘Environmental and climate Literacy’ The day is celebrated worldwide to demonstrate support for environmental protection. The most significant dangers to earth are the rising global temperature which contributes to rising sea-levels and the melting of glaciers.

International Day For Monuments and Sites April 18

International Day for Monuments and Sites is observed on April 18, 2017. The International Day for Monuments and Sites is held each year around the world with different types of activities, including visits to monuments and heritage sites, conferences, round tables and newspaper articles. The aim is to promote awareness about the diversity of cultural heritage of humanity and efforts required their protection and conservation.

126th Birth Anniversary of BR Ambedkar : 14 April

Ambedkar Jayanti is celebrated every year by the people with great enthusiasm more than like a festival on 14th of April. Nation remembers Dr. Bhim Rao Ramji Ambedkar on his 126th birth anniversary on 14 April, 2017. President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes at Babasaheb statue in the parliament house complex. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Chief Architect of the constitution of India, was born on 14th April 1891 at Mhow in Madhya Pradesh.

International Day of Human Space Flight – April 12, 2017

Every year 12th April is celebrated as International day of Human Space Flight to mark the day when the First Human Space Flight, carried out by Yuri Gagarin on 12 April, 1961. On April 7, 2011, the day was proclaimed by the UN at the 65th session of the United Nations General. To promote aspirants to explore and maintain outer space for peaceful purposes.

World Homeopathy Day : 10 April 2017

Minister of State Independent Charge) for Ayush, Shripad Yesso Naik inaugurated the National Convention on World Homeopathy Day on 10 April 2017 at New Delhi. The event was organized to commemorate the 262 nd birth anniversary of the founder of Homeopathy Dr. Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician, who was a great scholar, linguist and acclaimed scientist. A special session is also being organized to pay tribute to him.

World Health Day-April 7

World Health Day is on the 7th of April each year. This day marks the anniversary of the World Health Organization which was founded in 1948. The world Health Organization (WHO) is the leading global health authority within the United Nations System. The theme of 2017 World Health Day is “Depression Let’s talk”. More than 30 million people are now living with depression, an increase of more than 18% between 2005 and 2015.

6 April – International Day of Sport for Develop ment and Peace

The International Day of Sport for Development and peace (IDSDP) is an annual celebration of the power of sport to drive social change, community development and to foster peace and understanding. Creating a historical link to the first modern Olympic Games in 1986, 6 April was declared as the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013, and has been celebrated each year ever since 2014.

April 4 International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance

International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action was observed on 4 April 2017 across the world. The theme of the year 2017 is Needs Driven. People centred. Mine Action ensures that landmines and explosive hazards in war torn are as are found and destroyed, making possible the delivery of humanitarian assistance so that people and supplies reach those most in need. Driven the people to safer places.

World Autism Awareness Day – 2nd April

2nd April 2017 is the tenth annual World Autism Awareness Day. Since 2008 Organizations around the world celebrate and promote this day every year with awareness raising events. The 2017 the theme of the day is “Toward Autonomy and Self-Determination”. This day is an internationally recognized day, encouraging the member raise awareness about children with autism throughout the world.

81st Foundation Day of Odisha – Utkal Divas

On April 1, 1936, Odisha was formed and since then the day is celebrated to mark the contributions and sacrifices made by people of the state in the formation days. The day is also called as “Utkal Divas”. Besides people from different walks of life paid tributes to the legends and renowned personalities like Utkala Gaurav Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, Maharaja Rama chandra Bhanjadeo, Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati, Raja Baikuntha Nath Dey and so on helped Odisha to get status of separate linguistic state, which carved out Bengal-Bihar-Orissa province.

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